Why Make This Recipe
Christmas Baklava is the perfect way to elevate your holiday dessert table with a treat that’s both elegant and easy to make. Its layers of crispy phyllo dough, spiced nuts, and sweet syrup create a dessert that’s not only rich in flavor but also full of festive warmth.
This recipe combines traditional baklava with seasonal spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, making it a must-try for the holiday season. It’s a great option to impress your guests or even as a thoughtful homemade gift for friends and family.
With its irresistible mix of textures and flavors, Christmas Baklava is a dessert that brings people together. Whether you’re enjoying it with a hot cup of tea or sharing it at a holiday party, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.
How to Make Christmas Baklava
Ingredients:
- Phyllo Dough: 1 lb (thawed if frozen)
- Nuts: 2 cups (a mix of walnuts, almonds, and pistachios, finely chopped)
- Spices: 1 tsp cinnamon, ½ tsp nutmeg, and a pinch of cloves
- Butter: 1 cup, melted
For the Syrup:
- Honey: 1 cup
- Sugar: 1 cup
- Water: ½ cup
- Orange Zest: From 1 orange
- Spices: 1 cinnamon stick and 3 whole cloves
Directions:
- Prepare the Nuts
Combine the chopped nuts with cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves in a bowl. Set the mixture aside for later use. - Layer the Phyllo Dough
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Brush a baking dish with melted butter.- Place a sheet of phyllo dough in the dish and brush with butter. Repeat this for 6–8 sheets.
- Spread a layer of the nut mixture evenly over the phyllo.
- Add more phyllo layers, 3–4 sheets at a time, brushing each sheet with butter. Repeat until all ingredients are used, finishing with 6–8 phyllo layers on top.
- Cut and Bake
Use a sharp knife to cut the baklava into diamond or square shapes. Bake for 45–50 minutes, or until the layers are golden and crisp. - Make the Syrup
While the baklava bakes, combine honey, sugar, water, orange zest, cinnamon stick, and cloves in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10 minutes. Cool slightly before using. - Combine and Rest
Pour the warm syrup evenly over the hot baklava. Let the dessert rest for at least 4 hours, or overnight, to allow the syrup to soak into the layers.
How to Serve Christmas Baklava
Serve Christmas Baklava as a sweet treat after dinner or alongside your favorite hot beverages like tea or coffee. For an extra festive touch, garnish with a sprinkle of crushed pistachios or a drizzle of melted chocolate. You can also plate it with a dollop of whipped cream for added indulgence.
Whether enjoyed warm or at room temperature, Christmas Baklava is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings. Its sweet, nutty, and spiced flavors make it an unforgettable dessert experience.
Christmas Baklava
Christmas Baklava is a simple yet stunning holiday dessert. With its golden, flaky layers, spiced nuts, and sweet syrup, this festive treat brings joy to every occasion. Try it this holiday season, and let its flavors brighten your celebrations!
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